5 Essential Tips to Prepare for Laser Tattoo Removal and Ensure the Best Results:
1. Set Realistic Expectations for Laser Tattoo Removal
Laser tattoo removal is generally effective, but the results can vary depending on several factors. To ensure the best outcome, it’s important to have realistic expectations. Keep in mind that most tattoos require multiple treatment sessions for complete removal. Additionally, tattoos located further from the heart may take longer to remove due to decreased blood flow, which can affect the healing process and results.
2. Eat and Hydrate Before Your Laser Tattoo Removal Treatment
To ensure the best possible experience during your laser tattoo removal session, avoid arriving on an empty stomach. Feeling light-headed is a common side effect, so it’s important to reduce the risk by eating and hydrating well before your appointment. It’s also advisable to avoid ibuprofen or aspirin, as they can increase bruising after the treatment. For an extra boost, consider taking glucose tablets, as they can help maintain your energy levels during the procedure.
3. Stop Smoking Before Laser Tattoo Removal to Promote Healing
Getting rid of the smokes is essential for many health reasons, and it’s especially important before undergoing laser tattoo removal. Smoking can significantly slow down your body’s healing process, increasing the risk of scarring and infections. To ensure optimal results from your tattoo removal treatment, it’s highly recommended to stop smoking before and after the procedure.
4. Protect Your Skin from the Sun Before and During Laser Tattoo Removal
To ensure the best results from your laser tattoo removal treatment, it’s important to protect your skin from the sun. Tanned skin is more prone to adverse reactions such as hyperpigmentation (Leaving a dark stain) or hypopigmentation (Leaving a light stain) after the removal process, so it’s essential to avoid direct sunlight as much as possible while undergoing treatment. When you do need to be outside, apply a generous amount of sunscreen or wear protective clothing over the treated area. To prepare for your first session, stay out of the sun for at least four weeks, as some specialists may refuse to treat tanned skin.
5. Keep the Treated Area Clean and Clear for Laser Tattoo Removal
Before your laser tattoo removal treatment, it’s crucial to ensure that the skin is clean and free of any products such as moisturisers, lotions, perfumes, or cosmetics. This helps the laser work effectively and reduces the risk of irritation. During the procedure, the sensation may feel similar to being snapped with a rubber band (cliché but true) . After the treatment, your skin may feel sunburned, so be sure to wear loose-fitting clothing that doesn’t touch or rub against the treated area to avoid further discomfort.
Aftercare Instructions
What I Will Leave You with After Your Treatment
The area will be cleaned.A light layer of Aloe Vera gel will be applied.I will cover the area using either Second Skin (film dressing) OR gauze, depending on what’s safest for your treatment.
Removing the Second Skin (If I Applied It)
Keep the Second Skin on for 12–24 hours.Remove sooner if it lifts, fills with fluid, or irritates the skin.
To remove it safely:
Wash your hands first. Lift a corner gently. Stretch the film parallel to the skin (do not pull upwards). Peel slowly and support the skin with your other hand. If it grips, soften the edge with a bit of cool water.
If I applied gauze only, remove it gently after a few hours once the skin has calmed. After You Remove Your Dressing Rinse the area with cool water only.
No soap for the first 7 days.
Pat dry using clean kitchen roll. Apply Aloe Vera gel as often as needed. Keep the area covered with loose, clean clothing if clothing will rub on it.
Avoid These.
For the first 24–48 hours:
No heavy exercise or sweating.
For the first 7 days:
No soaps, shower gels, or cleansers on the treated area.
For the first 14 days:
No hot tubs, saunas, or steam rooms.
No swimming pools.
No submerging in the bath.
For 6–8 weeks:
No tanning or sun beds.
Until fully healed:
Do not pick scabs or blisters!
Do not use exfoliants, scrubs, acids, or vitamin A creams on the area.
Contact Me If You Notice:
Increasing redness, heat or spreading irritation
Pus or unusual discharge
Severe or worsening pain
What to Expect After Laser Tattoo Removal:
Days 1 to 3
Right after the procedure, you might notice redness, swelling, and sensitivity in the treated area. To help minimise swelling, apply an ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth for 10-15 minutes, making sure the ice doesn’t touch your skin directly.
Days 4 to 7
To ensure proper care during this time, gently cleanse the area with water and pat it dry using a clean, soft cloth on day 7. You might experience scabbing, blistering and itching as your skin continues to heal. To manage these symptoms, it’s important to avoid scratching or picking at the scabs, as this can cause scarring and delay recovery. Go for loose, breathable clothing to minimise irritation.
Days 8 to 14
You might notice some improvements in the treated area. You must continue to protect the area from the sun, if you need to go outside, apply a broad-spectrum suntan lotion with a minimum SPF of 50. To avoid any darkening of the skin; wearing protective clothing or a bandage can be helpful. If any scabs have come off on their own, you might want to gently exfoliate to support new skin development, using a mild product. And remember to stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, as this will aid in your skin’s healing process.
Days 15 and Beyond
Tattoo removal takes time! As you move beyond the initial stages of laser tattoo removal, it’s important to stay focused and committed to your treatment plan. Although these notes are helpful laser tattoo removal is not natural and your body is not expecting it, things might get weird. Consistency is key for achieving the best results. As your tattoo begins to fade, take a moment to appreciate the progress and enjoy the journey toward a clean slate.
It’s important to remain patient and remember your goal!
